“Who Wants to be a Millionaire?”

By Steve Willis

A few of us have been watching the ABC TV show named above. It can be fun to watch and to try to answer the questions posed to the contestants. Some of us may even wish that we could be on the show ourselves — alas, we can’t living in Canada. Instead, let us use the occasion of this show to consider some spiritual things.

This show tests knowledge of trivia. Did you know that “trivia” comes the Latin for “three roads”? People would discuss many things where three road came together. Isn’t it amazing how people know so much of so many topics! Don’t you find yourself answering along with the contestant — when you can? But what about Bible knowledge — I dare not call it “trivia.” Look how often people can cite sports statistics, words to popular songs, lists of provinces, states (and capitals). Yet when asked to remember a few dates related to Bible things, or a group of names, or even the books of the Bible, people draw a blank. What should we be seeking first?

Many shows have made trivia questions less trivial with large cash prizes. In November, a man won one million dollars! The week before that, on another show named “Greed,” three people split one million. We need to be careful that we don’t get greedy. Greed, or covetousness, is idolatry (Col. 3:5). Once again, what should we be seeking? “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you” (Matt. 6:33).

Then we come to that ubiquitous question, “Is that your final answer?” which is asked before revealing whether the contestant is right. We often sing the invitation song “What will your answer be?” God offers his kingdom and his righteousness. One must realize that each time he does not obey the gospel, he has chosen to say “No” to God. Maybe we can encourage you today to obey the gospel as you consider the oft-repeated question in the “Millionaire” show: